Longevity of cotton suitings?

[SimonC]

I've seen a lovely suit in a dove grey 9oz cotton with a napped finish. You wouldn't know from the hand or appearances that it was cotton - it more resembles wool. My only concern is longevity - can anyone give guidance on whether a cotton of this weight will last substantially less than a wool?

 

[Manton]

My experience with cotton is that longevity won't be a problem. It will stop looking new quite quickly and if you alter it, it will show the scars very visibly but if these things don't bother you it will be fine.

 

[George]

I've never understood cotton suits.

A while back I was told the price H&S charged for their Sea Island cotton suiting and it was ferocious.

 

[Miles Gloriosus]

Originally Posted by Manton

and if you alter it, it will show the scars very visibly

??

 

[George]

Originally Posted by Miles Gloriosus

??
Colour can fade due to sunlight, but will be darker on the inlays. Also depending on the density of the weave and the fineness of the needle used too sew it, you can be left with needle holes. Wool Gaberdine can have this problem too.

 

[Miles Gloriosus]

I've found on most of my sewing projects the needle holes will close with some washing or agitation. I use pretty thin needles though.

 

[Manton]

Originally Posted by George

I've never understood cotton suits.
It gets hot here.

 

[George]

Originally Posted by Manton

It gets hot here.
I'd have thought a Linen, or for work a tropical/Fresco would have been better. Does cotton suiting run that cool?

 

[Manton]

Originally Posted by George

I'd have thought a Linen, or for work a tropical/Fresco would have been better.

Does cotton suiting run that cool?

It does on me. It can also be woven much thinner than linen.

I love linen but I like my cotton too.

 

[SuitedDx]

Definitely agree with cotton or linen suits losing shape after a few wears. I also have a couple that are half-lined and I find that the lining at least helps preserve some of the shape because my half-lined linen suit now fits like a track jumpsuit after a summer's wear.